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A Visit With Randy

August 7, 2012 by larrysmailart

Randy Tost and I have become friends. The issue that brought us together initially was my art. He really likes my art and I appreciate this very much. The “art thing” soon had us realizing we had much more in common. We enjoy anything concerning nature. We, both, enjoy hunting. Randy has invited  me to visit his home and property.  We have enjoyed some breakfasts together at local restaurants on a few occasions. I consider him a fine and genuine person.                                                                                                                                                                                                               

We walked across the hollow to view the famous deer stand where many hunts yielded success over the years. Randy was shocked to see some tree damage from recent storms. A large limb from the oak the tree stand was attached had broken off and missed the stand only to hit an ash tree next to the stand. The big ash had broken and two of the main trunks were now on the ground.The big oak limb had then fallen close enough to push on the ladder, but not do any damage. WOW! Talk about luck!                                                                                                                                                                                               

   This morning we, also, set out for some hiking, thoughts of future art projects, checking on wildflower growths, bird boxes… I had given Randy some wildflower startings from my “crop” and some bird boxes earlier this year. Surprisingly, the flowers faired rather well since this summer had  been very hot and dry.  The remaining of the morning we talked hunting; my frequent snake bites; Ned Smith art; (one of the greatest wildlife painters) health issues….Four hours just flew by!

We talked about the losses of our loved ones too. Randy had lost, both his wife, Susie and his mother-in-law in 2000. You can still see the sadness whenever he talks of these wonderful women. I do the same anytime I discuss my father for more than a minute. The emotions and love are still present. He passed away in 1999. This is another bond we share!

Time went very quickly  and the noon hour was minutes from being on us and I was on my way back home with promises of visiting again. I was happy to see my wife and pets too.

    I was blessed to see a couple of deer and 15 turkey vultures drying in the morning sun from an ancient and long-dead tree.

Turkey Vultures

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Two First Place Awards

July 28, 2012 by larrysmailart

I looked outside and the rain was pouring! I thought, oh no, Mom, my step father, Bob have already left for Elderton, Pennsylvania  for a judged car show. I was planning on going up to show support. First, however, I needed to stop by their house and pick up a few things. The rains continued  during the five-mile travel and I waited at the house  anticipating their return at any moment.

Mom and the ’85 El Camino

The hour went fast  as I noticed the rain stopped. They hadn’t returned from the show. I began wondering if the rain could have possibly avoided them. I left for Elderton!

Mom and Bob with the ’54 Chevy

Sure enough, the farther east I drove the less evidence of rain. I thought how much work Bob did to the 1954 Chevrolet Bel-Aire and the 1985 El Camino. Both vehicles are, almost, complete and  original. The El Camino was driven by my mother, Ruth (Smail) Miller and, of course, Bob handled the ’54 Chevy.

I walked across the old high school soccer field looking over the old cars and  I finally saw the two cars. I enjoy old vehicles. Some of these are restored and some, but fewer, are original. Some vehicles are all “spruced up.” By this I mean the vehicles have lots of non-original features to enhance their looks.

I spent several hours with the two and watched two judges spend about twenty minutes looking the Bel-Aire over.  Finally after sprinkles threatened the event off and on, the rains began in earnest. I decided to head towards my car and go home.

A couple of hours later the phone rang and an excited mother announced both cars received first place in their divisions!  WOW! Congrats to both Bob and my mother!  Now Bob has something to do this week… clean the cars!

NOTE:  The El Camino has around 34,000 miles on it and the Bel-Aire has around 26,000 original miles. (I am relying on my memory.)

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Walk Along The River

July 25, 2012 by larrysmailart

Cardinal Flower

Frank “MUSKIE” Maus

I elected to go to the Armstrong County Historical Society museum very early to add a few items for the Native American Room there.The temperatures were to become hot so I decided to allow time to walk along the Allegheny River. One never knows what one might find along the banks.

The vegetation, of course, was dew-laden at this early hour. I was seeking anything of interest to take photos of too. Wildflowers flourish along the water sources.

 

Citizen’s Bridge at Kittanning, PA

I had not traveled far when a fishing boat was viewed travelling north on the western side of the river. I though I recognized the boat and soon definitely noticed the operator of the craft. It was my friend, Frank, “MUSKIE” Maus on his daily quest for the elusive fish the muskellunge. He didn’t notice me as he turned to his right and moved to about 60 yards from the shore. I hollered over to throw the lure, pointing to my left, over there for that is where the big ones are! I heard the familiar laugh. We chatted a while before I drifted south along the shore.

Pickerel Flower

One of my favorite summer flowers of areas near water sources is the cardinal-flower. The brilliant red colors stand out in dominance over the greens. I, also, noticed some pickerel flowers growing in the shallow water. This flower seems to be rather scarce in my travels.

I was fortunate to see some mallards;  a great blue heron; a groundhog and a couple ofrabbits throughout the short venture.

Groundhog

 

 

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Things I Have Been Doing!!!

July 12, 2012 by larrysmailart

Purple Coneflower

  I’ve been busy! The last weekend in June I played guitar with, at least, 6 bands at campgrounds. Of course, over the 4th of July week I was at several cook out meals. One was with my family and the other was at Greensburg, Pennsylvania at Laurie’s brother and his betrothed home. We attended  the home of Kristen and Mark Crosby on July 4th for multiple reasons. Mark had made the trek to becoming a Free Methodist pastor. We, and others had stopped by for a cook out type congratulatory visit. The invite, also, meant chairs set up watching the fire works during the Heritage Days event in Ford City, Pennsylvania.

We did some western-style square dancing  Friday evening (July 6) during one of the hottest days of summer. (Didn’t say we were smart! and I didn’t say I did well either!)

One evening I went for a nice bike ride. I went to Rosston and went around the marina and returned home.The several hour ride was invigorating.

Another project for me is placing tracks in a digital recordings for a future CD. I have placed , thus far, up to six and seven tracks on some of the 13 songs. This is a lot of work and is time-consuming. This morning we worked at placing some vocals on three of the songs.

Button Bush

Muskie Maus

On Tuesday, I spent the day on the Allegheny River casting and trolling for muskies at the invite of my friend, Frank (MUSKIE) Maus. He has caught 305 of these great fish in his fishing career. That is quite an accomplishment. The man is obsessed with muskies! We failed to have any strikes this day. I watched a gar trail my lure and with the next cast felt a nudge on the lure which was, probably, the same gar. We saw lots of mallards and some mergansers and a few gulls.  

Wednesday, found me doing a  couple of miles of walking and later gathering some large rocks for landscaping. (I am getting to old for such weights!)

A bear walked somewhere below my home on Tuesday. I sure would have liked to have seen it! This week I have seen a few deer and, today I did see about 7 turkeys cross the road below my old homestead.

Wednesday evening I located the final resting place of Col. William Sirwell. He was the commander of the 78 Pennsylvania Regiment from our area. He is buried at the St. Mary’s cemetary near Kittanning, Pennsylvania.

Col. Wm. Sirwell grave marker.

Saturday, I am scheduled to play lead guitar with a band called Just Passin’ Through. This band lost their lead guitar player about four years ago and I have been asked to play at Grey’s Home for their annual picnic the last three years.  This band doesn’t play music much together due to travel, etc. This is one time they manage to get together. They play older style country music.

Sunday evening, I was asked to play lead guitar with a gospel band called the Gospel Messengers. This will be a televised event. They lost their lead instrument last year and, as of date, haven’t found a full-time replacement.

Posted in Historical, Muskie Fishing, Wildflowers | Leave a Comment »

Some New Paintings

July 3, 2012 by larrysmailart

I have just updated some art onto the web site. The art may, also,  be found under the SERIES link on the right and under LATEST PAINTINGS; also, found on a right column link. I hope you enjoy the latest art.

ALL PAINTINGS ARE PROTECTED UNDER COPYRIGHT LAWS…………………………………………………

Filtered Light-Brook trout

Flying Low- Mallard

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meadow’s Edge-Black Bear Family

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Muskie Fishing

June 27, 2012 by larrysmailart

I had feelings of guilt while heading out for a muskellunge fishing adventure. My Uncle Harold Yount passed away Sunday night after a bout with lung cancer and other issues. My friend, Frank “MUSKIE” Maus and I had planned this day out. Initially after his passing I cancelled, but after the dates of funeral services became known, I decided to contact Frank and go ahead and fish.

The morning was very pleasant and cool. As the morning progressed a breeze became the norm and the temperatures edged upward into the low eighty degree range. At 9:00 A.M. local church bells rang out marking the time. It is about that time we began casting lures into the waters of the Allegheny River near Kittanning, Pennsylvania.

Preparing for release!

Muskie!

Frank had snagged a fish while retrieving his lure. He theorized it may have been a bass or shad. I saw the shine as the fish turned. I had casted approximately 10-12 casts when I felt the weight and struggle begin. I had caught a beaut of a muskie! The fight was on!

After a few minutes of exciting fishing I had the fish tiring enough to work it towards the boat’s side.Both, Frank and I believe in playing the fish quickly to release as fast as possible. This helps insure safety and a much better chance of successfully releasing the muskie to a long life.

Frank has a floating measuring device he had made and he placed it measure alongside of the fish. I looked and the tail edged alongside of the 44 inch mark, give or take a bit. I held the fish by the tail and Frank removed the barbed hooks from the tiger’s mouth. The muskie has many sharp and dangerous teeth. These teeth point backwards towards the fish’s belly. Don’t get them in your flesh for the pain is difficult.

I held the muskie’s tail for moment or two making sure the fish appeared to be good to go and shortly she was off. I was elated as you might have guessed. Frankie was, probably more giddy than I for we both laughed for a while afterwards. The remainder of our fishing adventure produced no more muskies.                                  

Later on, I spotted a deer along the west side of the river and saw something else in the water about 100 yards from the shore. I gave it little thought thinking goose.A moment or two later, I told Frank what is that in the water. I reached for my binoculars and was very much surprised to see a buck rapidly heading for the eastern shore! WOW!

I couldn’t thank Frankie enough for the day. We had our usual laughs and conversation and some great memories.

******************************************************************************************************************************************

Yesterday, I had went to a local state game lands for a walk and carp fishing. I caught an 18 incher. Later, as I walked about I found the remains of a black bear!

Posted in Muskie Fishing, My Family | 4 Comments »

Taking My Sister Fishing

June 11, 2012 by larrysmailart

I was planning with a couple of hours of carp fishing anyway, so when my sister Ruthie Wolfe and I were talking I asked her if she wanted to go for a walk and take some photos as I fished. As promised, we were only there for a couple of hours. We wanted to beat the heat.

Ruthie holding one of my catches.

We went to a local state game lands. To fish in the pond one needs to walk about one mile. The game lands road has an issue that I didn’t think of. Poison Ivy! I do not give the three-leaf plant any thought, but my sister is highly allergic to it. Years ago she had blisters as big as silver dollars. She had a rough ordeal. We did are best to avoid the more vegetated road sites and we managed to stay clear of the plant. However, she had to be careful at a few sites.     

The pond was muddy due to the carp activity in the waters. Amazingly, the inflow stream was barely allowing for clean water entry. I guess we have been more dry than I realized.

The back of a carp.

I began to stalk for carp. Ripples could be seen near the edge of the pond. Often the fish would be tight along the pond’s edge among the high grasses. Occasionally, one could actually see the backs of carp in the shallow water.

I managed to catch only two carp. However, I missed several. They were not taking the bait very readily. Normally, I fish here earlier in the morning.The carp is a proven fighter pulling hard once hooked. The fish is very capable of breaking fishing line whenever they make one of the power surges they are famous for.

The Legend!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Crooked Creek Fishing

June 8, 2012 by larrysmailart

Crooked Creek

A slight fog was still covering the hollows as I approached the back waters of Crooked Creek. The morning sun was rapidly burning off the remainder of any of the fog. I heard a few “honks”of Canada geese just ahead of me. the dense vegetation was not allowing the birds to see me until I was almost to them.

Another view of Crooked Creek

The moment I became visible the two adults and their three half-grown goslings became nervous and the eased down stream away from my presence. Strangely, a fourth bird with them was a female common merganser. She went air-borne! I would see her several times as the morning progressed.

Papa Goose

The fishing began slow, but improved as the sun heated the hollow. As the sun rose I could see bass, bluegills and later one sizable carp. One largemouth bass appeared to be around 14 inches in length. The fish refused to bite, but smaller ones liked the worms. Throughout the morning I caught bluegills and smallmouth bass and one horny-headed chub.

Merganser

Water snake

The northern water snakes were out too. I saw, at least , seven or eight snakes. One overhanging tree yielded several falling from the branches into the water. I spotted two on a limb at one time. I couldn’t resist the urge and I caught one snake and tossed the reptile into the water.

The snake I caught!

Before I knew it much time had elapsed and I decided I better head off home for Suzie, my diabetic Springer Spaniel, would be holding her legs together tightly trying to fend off her need to go outside for a nature call.

Crooked Creek is a beautiful waterway.The history of our area would have seen many Lenni-lenape hunters and warriors, along with early setters using those waters for their traveling needs.

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Expensive Day

June 4, 2012 by larrysmailart

I dropped the car near the old Linde -Aire plant (south of Applewold, Pennsylvania) off this morning to have it inspected. Also, I needed a squeal located. I packed my camera and headed down the tracks across the river from Manorville, Pennsylvania. I allocated two hours to allow for the car to be checked over. However, I discovered , while going through my insurance papers that my insurance would be up very soon. I didn’t receive the usual forms  showing what I needed to pay to comply.  I had forgotten about this since the paperwork hadn’t been received by me.

Daisy

Male wood duck

The walk was enjoyable with cooler temperatures with lots of nature to observe. The mechanic called my cell to inform me my 2008 Dodge Caliber with only 26,000 miles was in bad joint. The “Bad Luck”car was adding up more grief for me. The warranty is up and the problems I have had  are terrible when one considers the low mileage. While setting on the rails of the railroad tracks I called the insurance company and was told for me to simply drop by and pay the cost and they would take over and supply all my needs in regards to the insurance.

Wood Duck family

Needless to say with insurance and car repairs I dropped very close to a grand. However, I still managed to find enjoyment with my hike. I saw wood ducks…a beautiful male woodie and a hen woodie with  quite a brood. I saw lots of squirrels. I saw gray and fox squirrels. I noticed these mammals enjoy setting on the rails too. They allow me to walk rather close at times. I saw lots of bird life, especially the rose-breasted grosbeak…always a favorite of mine. I saw two deer (possibly three) and had two red fox sightings. The fox, at one time, exited the vegetation ten feet to my left and was so surprised it resembled a cartoon character running in place trying get traction. So, one might consider my hike rather expensive!

Posted in Hikes, Misc. Nature | Leave a Comment »

Music; Biking; Fishing and Family

May 30, 2012 by larrysmailart

Lots to do! I started the weekend out by playing guitar for various bands at the Maple Grove Campground near Brick Church, Pennsylvania. Saturday, May 26th, was once again was music oriented. I had the opportunity to see a dear friend, Paul Eckenrode and his wife Sherene. I met Paul and his wife over fifteen years ago at this very same camground. Paul, who is a Free Methodist minister, and I became instant friends. He sings country-style gospel music and I, as a lead guitar player filled in on a number of occasions. I hadn’t seen Paul and Sherene for about six years now and I was happy to be able to musically participate with him once again.                                                                                                                                                   

Memorial Day found family getting together for a visit and cook out. In the past, I had attended the Elderton Memorial Day Parade dressed  in 18th century attire. The parade, apparently has fallen wayside for I haven’t heard anything about it recently. I hang a flag out every Memorial Day, both the observed day and the originally attended day of May 30th. This is a small token of respect for those brave heroes who have fallen for our country, America.

Mountain laurel-Pennsylvania’s state flower.

I headed for the Allegheny River on Tuesday morning to try my luck with fishing. (May 29th) I had some worms left over from my northern Pennsylvania excursions earlier this month. I had a blast catching native brook trout near Kettle Creek.

Snapping Turtle

I saw male and female mallards as I walked along the river’s bank. Two female mallards each had a brood of young ducklings. The males flew off as the females lured the little ones fast along her side. I saw 31 geese flying in a half a V formation too. I thought this to be odd at this time of the year.

Fishing was interesting. Some fish, I believe were suckers would nibble at the worms, but never would bite hard enough for me to launch a rearward rod movement to catch them. I did, however, catch one channel catfish. The fish was about one foot long. While fishing I had the opportunity to observe a rather large beaver eating vegetation on the island south of the Lock Number 7 Dam at Kittanning, Pennsylvania.

The Allegheny River

Today, May 30th, a friend Larry Delaney and I took a 13 (or so)mile bike ride from Templeton to Rimer, Pennsylvania. On our trip we saw several squirrels, a lot of young chipmunks and two deer. We, also, were blessed to see some beautiful Pennsylvania river landscape. Earlier, I removed a snapping turtle from near a road. The turtle would have surely been run over by a vehicle if he continued on its path. Strangely, the unappreciate, turtle didn’t like being carried. The entire time I was traveling towards swamp lands to release it, the mouth was opened wanting to take a chunk of flesh from my thigh.

Posted in Fishing, Music, My Family | Leave a Comment »

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